The Nest Playschool is an infant/toddler childcare program in SE Portland. If you believe in the profound importance of high quality, respectful care for the youngest children and you are looking for your home in the world of early childhood education, come find your place with us! Our small setting, relationship-focused philosophy, supportive working environment, and incredible community of families gives us something you can't quite find in centers.
We are seeking an infant/toddler teacher to join us for our incoming cohort of infants this fall. We are looking for someone who is passionate about respectful care, and is ready to fall in love with a group of babies and support and nurture them (and their parents) through the first two years.
You MUST be a believer in play-based education, and trust in children’s natural abilities. We are passionate believers in RIEall of Magda Gerber's work, and Janet Lansbury's too! We feel very strongly that your respectful view of the child will be the foundation of your daily practice.
Also useful: a good sense of humor, comfort with bodily fluids (!), an outstanding work ethic, and the motivation to learn and grow as a teacher.
Visit our website www.nestplayschoolpdx.com to find out more about our philosophy and environment.
We would love to find someone with 1 year experience in a child care setting OR Step 8 on Oregon Registry OR 20 semester credits/30 quarter credits in Early Childhood Education or related field. We are also happy to train the right person—we are more interested in a respectful attitude toward children and families than we are in formal education.
Requirements upon hire:
-Enrollment in the Criminal History Registry (Apply online at https://oregonearlylearning.com/providers-educators/providers-educatorscbr/)
-Food Handler’s Card
-Infant/Toddler CPR and first aid
-Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect Class
-Introduction to Health and Safety Class
-Safe Sleep for Infants and Toddlers class
-Prevention is Better Than Treatment class
This position will be scheduled for approximately 25 hours per week, 1:30-6:30pm, though exact hours may vary. We are hoping to find someone who can take on additional sub hours as needed. Program hours and shifts range between the hours of 7:15 AM to 6:30 PM. Occasional weekend and evening events may be requested of staff (3-4 times a year).
Duties include: Supervising children; managing feeding, napping, and diapering schedules for several children at a time; setting up and maintaining play spaces; cleaning and caring for our environment; following our respectful discipline philosophy; supporting conflict resolution; food preparation, bottle and infant food feeding; diaper changes/toilet training support; documenting learning; communicating with families.
Must be able to meet physical demands: requires lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling up to 30 pounds on a frequent basis, and up to 50 pounds occasionally. Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, and walking may be required. Stooping, kneeling, bending, balancing, reaching, and use of the hands will occur throughout the workday. Lift and carry children ages 6 weeks to 3 years. Must be capable and comfortable working outdoors for 2-3 hour blocks of time, rain or shine.
>>>To apply please submit your resume and EITHER a cover letter OR the answers to the questions below<<<
1. Why babies/toddlers? What about this age group calls to you?
2. List a few of your favorite resources on early childhood education/parenting (could be books, blogs, etc.).
3. Where do you shine? Have you honed a skill working with children, or do you have special interests that you are excited to share with us?
Pay range for this position starts at $18-$21/hour, depending upon qualifications.
Health benefits with medical, dental, and vision
20+ days of paid holiday closures/year
Paid inclement weather closures
Paid professional development opportunities
Lunch, coffee, and tea provided daily